ELL Strategies for Success

  

   If you are a teacher, chances are you’ve had an ELL student in your classroom! ELL stands for English Language Learners. ELL students are the sweet kiddos that are unable to communicate fluently or learn effectively in English. These students include your kiddos that are learning English as a second language, and these students usually come from non-speaking English homes and backgrounds. It is so important to remember that these students are not “lower” students. Usually they know or understand the concept that is being taught, but they just struggle with understanding and using the English language. Some teachers may feel lost about differentiating for an ELL student, which is totally understandable. It is hard to put yourself in the shoes of an ELL student to know what might be most effective for your English learners, but it is vital to provide modified or specialized instruction for these students to thrive in your classroom.

     First things first, you MUST cultivate relationships with the ELL students and their families. Many teachers advise going on home visits to get a more in depth understanding of the student’s home life, hobbies, and family. This knowledge about the student’s cultures should be brought in the classroom to make their culture feel appreciated and valued. By bringing in ELL students’ culture and language into the classroom, you will be creating a supportive environment that embraces their culture and abilities. It is also very important to make your students that are not fluent in English to feel comfortable. This can look like the teacher trying to communicate in their language or using their language in lessons. Even if the teacher sounds silly, at least the student sees that the teacher is trying, and this can make the student open up in the classroom. There are multiple ways to incorporate their native languages such as Google Translate, through videos, using books in their native language or books that reflect their culture, and through photographs. Another strategy to support ELL students is to increase think time. Your ELL students need time to process their thoughts and produce an answer. Even when speaking teachers should take their time when teaching so that ELL students can truly hear what you are saying. Differentiating assessment for ELL students is a great way to support the students. Sometimes the outcome way be different from other students in the class, but if there’s a way for the students to present their understanding, then let them. Make sure you give your students multiple ways to learn through writing, speaking, moving, drawing, and listening (think Gardner’s multiple intelligences).

     Remember that ALL students are different. It is our jobs to use whatever tools and resources we need to give all students an opportunity to thrive and succeed in the classroom. Try new things, think outside the box. You never know the impact you could be making!